February 2014

When we opened our doors for the second meeting of the Memory Café on 3^rd February, we felt that all the odds were against us.  Several members of our organising team were unwell, and the weather was appalling, with high winds and lashing rain (no surprise there!).  However, our back-up team of helpers stepped into the breach, and we were delighted when guests began to arrive. We were very pleased that Crantock friends, who had attended our January gathering, had ventured out to see what was on offer again, and delighted to welcome newcomers from Cubert, Newlyn East and Newquay – news of us is spreading!

After a welcome ‘cuppa’, we talked about childhood memories, aided by puzzles, toys and photos and as we have come to expect, the room was soon filled with laughter and chatter.  At this point we wondered whether we were disturbing the peace, especially when Caroline, our local Police Community Support Officer appeared at the door!  We breathed a sigh of relief to discover she had simply heard of our gathering and had come to see how things were going: we quickly plied her with a cup of tea and sat her down to join in!

Following a welcome break to catch our breath, during which tea and homemade cakes were served by Brenda and Pat, our able helpers in the kitchen, we settled down for a game of ‘Musical Bingo’.  It’s not until you start listening to music that you realise just how many songs you know – and can sing along with!

The time just flew by – what a great way to spend a dull, wet winter’s afternoon.  We’re now looking forward to our next Memory Café which will be on Monday 3rd March from 2pm – 4pm at Crantock Village Hall.  Plans are at an early stage as this is written but we know there will be plenty to do and talk about; and of course more tea and cake!

All those with concerns about their memory, and carers too, are welcome to join us. The Café is free of charge, although donations towards our running costs are welcomed.

January 2014

On the afternoon of Monday 6^th January, Crantock Memory Cafe opened its doors for the first time. The volunteers held their breath – after several months of meeting, planning and training, would anyone come along to see what we had to offer?  We didn’t have to wait long for our answer! Even before our official opening time of 2.00 p.m. guests, male and female, were starting to arrive, some on their own and others with family or carers. Some were already friends or acquaintances, whilst others began the afternoon as complete strangers – but not for long!  All were welcomed with a smile and a cup of tea and soon the Village Hall was full of lively chatter and laughter.

After a brief welcome from Joan, the Chairwoman of our organising committee, and words of introduction by Sue McDermott from the Cornwall Rural Community Council, we began to get to know each other better by sharing memories and experiences, and having a go at various activities.  A number of our guests and carers took the opportunity of having a relaxing hand massage offered by Di – this proved to be a great success and will be on offer each month.

After another ‘cuppa’, this time with a range of delicious homemade cakes and biscuits, we were entertained by Barry and Evelyn who with the aid of keyboard and accordion soon had us laughing, singing along and tapping our feet!!

The two hours passed very quickly, and we very much hope that all those who came along and enjoyed the afternoon will come again to our next session on Monday 3^rd February from 2.00 – 4.00pm in Crantock Village Hall.

If you, or someone you know might benefit from attending our sessions please do come along. It is easy to fit in as each session is made up of a range of activities (next month is based on ‘Pancakes’) and, as we’ve already discovered, there is plenty of chat and laughter. Our main aim is to provide a time and place where people can relax, be themselves, make new friends and have a good time.

If you were unable to come to our first meeting don’t worry – we’ll be meeting at the same time on the first Monday of every month and a warm welcome will await you whenever you can come. Please note that there is ample car parking at the Hall and disabled access.